First ever lay National Director for Catholic Mission

Catholic Mission is to have its first ever lay National Director, with the appointment of Mr Martin Teulan to the position.

Catholic Mission is the Australian arm of the Catholic Church’s global mission aid agency in a worldwide network known as the Pontifical Mission Societies.

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference nominated Mr Teulan for the position and their nomination was endorsed by the Vatican’s Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples, which has appointed him as National Director.

In his role as National Director, Mr Teulan will cooperate with Diocesan Directors of Catholic Mission.

Mr Teulan was previously Chief Operating Officer at Church Resources and has also held positions as Marketing Manager for Wesley Mission, Director of Pastoral Planning, and Media Spokesperson for Parramatta Diocese, and National Executive Officer for Catholic Mission (1989-1995). He began his career as a teacher.

Bishop Joseph Grech, of the Bishops Commission for Mission and Faith Formation, said the Bishops welcomed Mr Teulan’s appointment to the position.

“We are certain that because of his expertise he will promote and continue the important works of the Pontifical Missions Societies (Catholic Mission),” he said.

Bishop Grech also thanked the outgoing director, Fr Terry Bell, for his commitment to Catholic Mission during his appointment.

“Fr Terry oversaw a period of significant change at Catholic Mission and his energy, vision, and close cooperation with the Bishops for Catholic Mission has been appreciated,” he said.

Mr Teulan, whose five year term as National Director begins on November 1, said he was delighted to be taking on the role.

“Catholic Mission in Australia has had significant successes in recent years in its fundraising and education programs,” he said. “I feel privileged to take up the position as National Director and to be able to contribute to its continued success in the future.

“It's great to meet with Australian missionaries and indigenous church workers and volunteers who work to meet the spiritual and practical needs of local communities overseas . Though it’s very rewarding, their work can be lonely, tough and dangerous. Their stories inspire me.

Mr Teulan said that a key question for the Church today is: ‘How can we share our faith in Jesus?’

“I hope that Catholic Mission can bring the rich experience and knowledge of evangelisation in other countries and cultures to inspire the Church in Australia. Catholic Mission has a role in motivating and educating Australians to share their faith in their parishes, schools and workplaces.  I hope we can partner with others in the Australian Church to show how the message of Jesus can change people's lives for the better both here and overseas.”